Strengthening the Power of Self-Determination for Native Hawaiians
Since the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) was first established in 1996, it has strengthened indigenous self-determination and empowered Native people by addressing affordable housing needs. In Hawai'i, NAHASDA has increased homeownership among Native Hawaiians, brought hope to many people who are living paycheck to paycheck and helped to remove roadblocks to economic success. At the start of the 114th Congress, Tulsi worked to pass legislation reauthorizing NAHASDA in the House and is continuing to work to ensure this program continues for generations to come.

Tulsi also successfully passed the Native Hawaiian Education Reauthorization Act under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which was signed in to law at the end of 2015. Since it was first passed in 1988, the Native Hawaiian Education Act has provided critical funding for thousands of Native Hawaiian children and families.

Equal opportunity and access to education, job opportunities, and health services must be within reach for Native Hawaiians in Hawai’i and across the United States. Native Hawaiians are disproportionately affected by health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes, and also have lower rates of access to quality care. Tulsi has continually supported measures to maintain and improve the health and well-being of Native Hawaiians. Through continued advocacy for the Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems (NHHCS), critical services like primary care, health education, and disease prevention have become more accessible and affordable for Native Hawaiians throughout the state.

Video of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Speaks on Amendment for Native American CDFI Assistance Program

Washington, DC — Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today applauded the passage of her amendment to reauthorize the Native Hawaiian Education Act. The amendment was made to H.R. 5, which will be considered by the House for final passage tomorrow. Reps. Don Young (R-AK) and Tulsi Gabbard introduced the amendment, which passed by a vote of 263-161.

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today delivered remarks on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives calling on Congress to pass her legislation to reauthorize the Native Hawaiian Education Act (H.R. 2287).